You may be hearing the Descriptive Video Service (DVS) option made available to audiences who are blind or visually impaired. You can turn this feature off and on fairly easily.


Most newer-model TVs with stereophonic sound systems are able to receive a Second Audio Program (SAP) which provides enriched verbal descriptions of what is heard and seen on a TV's primary audio and video channels. Most TVs and VCRs require you to select the SAP channel in order to receive and record DVS. The selector is usually labeled SAP, MTS, Audio 2, or Audio B on your TV panel, remote-control device, or on-screen menu. Un-selecting the SAP channel should eliminate the DVS option.


If you're not able to un-select the SAP channel, review your TV manual or contact a TV vendor who can guide you through the process. Like closed captioning, DVS was also pioneered by PBS to ensure the widest possible audience is served.


Related topics:

How will I know when a video is about to expire?
Is there a way to find full episodes of shows that fall into a specific genre without looking at each show individually?

Can I adjust the quality of video streaming?

I am getting a message that a video is unavailable in my area. Why?

I want to watch a PBS program that was broadcast but is not yet available online. What are my options?

Where can I find the transcript for a particular story or program?

What is the benefit of creating an account?

What are the system requirements to view PBS content?

What is the Watchlist?

Do I need to be signed in to use the Watchlist?

Are videos ever removed from my Watchlist without my knowledge?

Is there a limit to how many videos I can save to my Watchlist?

Learn how to create an account